Brentford’s Thomas Frank Hopes Ivan Toney Stays Amid Arsenal and Chelsea Interest

Brentford manager Thomas Frank remains hopeful that star striker Ivan Toney will stay at the club amid interest from Arsenal and Chelsea in the upcoming January transfer window.

Toney, who scored 20 Premier League goals last season and made his senior England debut, is currently serving a ban over betting offences but will be eligible to return in the second half of January.

Frank expressed confidence in Toney’s commitment, stating, “I don’t want to lose him. I hope, and think, he’ll be a Brentford player on February 1.” Despite Brentford being open to considering offers for Toney, they value him above £75-80 million.

Arsenal and Chelsea, both in need of a goalscoring ‘number nine’, are the leading interested clubs. While meeting the cash valuation is a possibility, there’s also openness to player exchanges to reduce the price tag.

Recent reports indicate that Toney is ready to push for a transfer in January, with talks held between his representatives and both Arsenal and Chelsea. Toney is surprised by Brentford’s high asking price, potentially hindering a move.

An alternative solution could involve Toney signing a new contract with Brentford that includes a release clause. This option, mutually beneficial, could preserve Toney’s market value, secure a pay rise, and facilitate a smoother future transfer process, given that his current deal expires in 2025.